2015 was a banner year for me and Regina Patterson Photography. So what do I mean by "the year without a safety net"? It was the first year that I have worked only for myself and not a school photography company on the side. Why is this a big deal? Well , I'll tell you. To explain, I'll need to give you the back story. In 2008, when the real estate market crashed, my husband Russell was a home builder and needless to say our personal finances tanked. It was a devastating time for my family as well as many other families. When my oldest son David was born, I chose to be a stay at home Mom. In 2008, I had been at home raising my boys for 23 years. I knew I had to get a job, but what was someone in their forty's who had been out of the work force for so long going to do? I prayed ALOT! God Answered! I had an idea, I loved taking photos but technically, I had no idea what I was doing. I called someone I knew who owned a school photography company and he actually hired me, I was shocked! I was a BAD photographer but something happended...It opened my eyes and filled my soul! I loved it so much that I dedicated myself to getting better. I read books, took continuing education classes and researched the internet until I figured out the basics. A couple of years later I decided to start my own business. Believe me, starting a new business with little experience in your 40's is a scary thing! I started with a Canon 30d and a budget of $0 and extremly low self esteem! Slowly but surely, my business began to grow. Since then, I have worked for several school photography companies through the years. 2015 was the first year I have been completely on my own. My equipment has slowly been upgraded and my confidence has also improved. I still have those days when I think I'm not as good as other photographers, but I guess we all have those days. Why am I writing about this? Its not to brag or toot my own horn. I just hope to be an inspiration to my two boys David and Scott, their wives Lauren and Mandy and my grandchildren Harrison and Scarlett. I just want them to know that no matter what circumstances you are given, you have to keep going. Sometimes you have to get off the couch and make something out of nothing. I didn't do it alone, God was always with me and I truly belive this is what I am supposed to do. My husband Russell is my rock and my strongest supporter. When I needed an expensive piece of equipment, he would always find a way to get it. He took whatever side job he could find and worked hard to provide for his family. He has always been there to assist in many, many photo sessions. If you have ever asked yourself the question, "If I lost everything, would God really provide?" The answer is YES, he will! I am still learning everyday and I still have a long way to go, but I'm willing to take the journey.
